hammer out

hammer out

1. To strike something repeatedly in order to remove a dent from it. A noun or pronoun can be used between "hammer" and "out." I'm sure my mechanic could hammer out that dent in your door.

2. To strike something, typically a metal, repeatedly in order to stretch it out and make it thinner. A noun or pronoun can be used between "hammer" and "out." We need to hammer out the iron before we can use it in this project.

3. To come to an agreement after lengthy deliberation or discussion. A noun or pronoun can be used between "hammer" and "out." We're still trying to hammer out the details of this contract.

4. To play something on the piano. A noun or pronoun can be used between "hammer" and "out." I wonder how many lessons I'll need before I can hammer out an actual song.

hammer out

Work out with considerable effort, as in It took weeks of negotiations to hammer out an acceptable compromise. This usage likens intellectual effort to shaping metal with the blows of a hammer. [Mid-1700s]

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